Heading into their September 18, 2009 match with #7 UCLA, the Titan volleyball program had never beaten a nationally ranked team, nor had they beaten the Bruins in their 13 prior meetings dating back to 1980.
UCLA, led by future All-American Amanda Gil, was on a seven-match winning streak as they participated in the Embassy Suites Fullerton Classic at Titan Gym.
Cal State Fullerton was off to a great season start at 7-2, and had a talented squad led by outside hitters Kayla Neto and Torrie Brown, and middle blockers Erin Saddler and 6'5" Alex Wolnisty. Cami Croteau was the libero and Andrea Ragan was the setter.
Fullerton stunned UCLA, winning the first set 25-23. The Titans also won the third set 25-20. After falling in the second and fourth sets to UCLA, a dramatic fifth set would have to take place. In volleyball, a set is normally won by scoring 25 points. In a fifth set the winning score is 15 and is somewhat akin to a tiebreaker in tennis.
After taking a 3-1 lead in the final set, UCLA roared back to take the next six consecutive points. Following a timeout and mid-set courtside switch, Fullerton rallied to tie the match 8-8. The lead went back-and-forth until tied again at 14-14. The Titans went ahead 15-14 on a UCLA error, and the crowd held its collective breath. The Titans won the game 16-14 on a Jonny Hart blast, and a celebration ensued.
Erin Saddler had 20 kills and 11 digs on the night. Torrie Brown and Kayla Neto had double-digit kills with 17 and 14 apiece. Neto also had three service aces.
The Titans combined for 71 digs, including Cami Croteau's 24. Setter Andrea Ragan had 10 digs to go with her 59 assists.
Fullerton would finish the 2009 season at 18-12. The success in 2009 would set the table for 2010's best program record of 26-6, which would include Fullerton's only Big West championship and NCAA tournament appearance.
Head coach Carolyn Zimmerman would be named Big West coach of the year in 2010, and Erin Saddler would receive Big West player of the year honors.
During their Titan careers, Cami Croteau, Torrie Brown, Erin Saddler and Kayla Neto would receive various Big West honors. Saddler and Neto would be named to AVCA Honorable Mention All-American teams.